UKTV Secures 'Do No Harm' For U.K.

The multi-channel network operator owned by BBC Worldwide and Scripps Networks Interactive inks a multi-program pact with NBCUniversal International Television Distribution.

LONDON – UKTV, the multi-channel network operator owned by BBC Worldwide and Scripps Networks Interactive, has inked a multi-content deal for scripted drama with NBCUniversal International Television Distribution.

Through the wide-ranging deal, UKTV has secured the U.K. rights to the US network series Do No Harm, starring Steven Pasquale as a neurosurgeon with a dangerous sociopathic alter ego.

UKTV has also snapped up future seasons of the established TV police fantasy procedural Grimm for its flagship entertainment channel Watch for British audiences.

The deal also includes additional seasons of legal comedy drama Suits for UKTV channel Dave.

The trio of scripted titles were ordered by UKTV controller Emma Tennant alongside Watch general manager Steve Hornsey for Do No Harm and Grimm, and by Dave general manager Steve North for Suits.

Do No Harm, which will air in the US in 2013, will premiere on Watch in the summer of next year.

UKTV has also committed to acquire future seasons of Grimm after the first season on Watch averaged just under a million viewers per episode.

Suits marks the first U.S. scripted drama to air on Dave, with the first season averaging over 700,000 viewers per episode.

The second season is due to air in early 2013.

UKTV head of acquisitions and co-productions Alexandra Finlay said: "UKTV is committed to showcasing the best premium drama content and we’re delighted to extend our collaboration with NBCUniversal on this new deal."

Belinda Menendez, president, NBCUniversal International Television Distribution and Universal Networks International added she was pleased to "extend our relationship with UKTV through this deal."